Quintal

/ˈkwɪn.təl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A unit of mass equivalent to 100 kilograms.
The farmer harvested a quintal of wheat this season.
In some countries, a quintal may refer to a unit of weight that equals 100 pounds.
The produce was sold by the quintal at the market.
A term used in certain measurements, varying in definition based on regional standards.
Some regions use the term quintal to describe 50 kilograms instead of the standard 100.
A traditional unit of weight used for agricultural products.
The farmer delivered three quintals of rice to the local co-op.

Etymology

From Latin 'quintale', meaning 'a fifth', related to a fifth part of a hundredweight.

Common Phrases and Expressions

quintal of produce
A standard measure for agricultural products.
load of quintals
Refers to a large quantity measured in quintals.

Related Words

centner
A measure of mass equal to 100 kilograms, similar to quintal.
metric ton
A unit of mass equivalent to 1,000 kilograms.

Slang Meanings

A large quantity of something, particularly in trade.
That store moves quintals of coffee every week.